The list of athletic communities that match golf’s enthusiasm for tech is, at best, humble. The ability to motivate and engage the audience tied to those communities is the fuel for progress… and in this area, golf is supreme. The tech advances earning a place on the course are not, unlike other sports, limited strictly to the professional or the enthusiast. They tempt each and every golfer of passion to buy and they infiltrate and disrupt the game on every level it’s played.

It’s an evolution enjoyed by few, but more than a few of those success stories have become a reality via golf. FlightScope may be the latest.

Seeking a vulnerable and obvious opportunity – mobile documentation of intricate details of performance during a round of golf – FlightScope aims to provide a new tech-driven tool for progress for every golfer on the planet, wherever they might roam. Integrating the advancing applications of motion tracking with a powerful 3D-modeling engine, FlightScope is opening eyes and hopes of golfers all over the world.

We caught up with FlightScope CEO Henri Johnson to get the inside scoop on the tech and the golf revolution it’s leading.

SportTechie (ST): FlightScope is an application that tends to “WOW!” the first-time user right out of the box. Its impressive, both in the tech it puts to use and the way it applies it to golf. Clearly the goal is to improve the ability to succeed on the course, but I was hoping you could provide some insight on the inspiration for FlightScope, and how the idea of 3D Doppler tracking came into the picture on the golf course for its creators.

Henri Johnson (FS): I am originally from South Africa, and back in the day, two years military service was mandatory. During my two years in the service I specialized in missile ballistics, basically tracking missiles using radar. After my two years’ service I decided to start my business and use my military experience by applying the technology to Cricket and Tennis. Golf was a logical progression due to the fact the technology is extremely accurate and very cost effective. My goal has been to bring this technology to the consumer, which we are finally able to do with the launch of our Xi model.

ST: Explain to us, in duffer’s terms, how the FlightScope works. Are special balls or clubs a necessity, or are there attachments to traditional equipment that help FlightScope achieve connection to the action?

FS: FlightScope’s 3D motion tracking devices will basically track anything that moves. As it relates to golf it will track the ball from impact until it lands or until it disappears from the radars’ view-point (horizon), the same applies to the club, it will track the club throughout the entire swing. The two main technological aspects of the FlightScope 3D motion tracking device are its radar technology (very similar to that which is used in the military), and its advanced industrial electronics.

The patented phased array tracking technology that is used in all FlightScope radar units is the most advanced in the industry today.

ST: The ability to measure action, both in the flight of the golf ball and in the swing of the golfer, provides benefit any experienced golfer can understand. However, we were blown away by the new mobile applications used to compile, translate and communicate those metrics. FlightScope aims to help golfers improve. How do the improvements towards mobile help you achieve that?

FS: In today’s world it is all about being portable. Our mobile apps allows the golfer to be exactly that. From my phone to my iPad (in my pocket) to the driving range, I can be connected to my FlightScope unit where I have access to my data, get instant feedback and are able to respond on the spot.

Being mobile and always connected further helps social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter to allow the golfer to connect with his buddies and share all his data, shots, statistics, and videos of his/her golf swing.

ST: Over recent years the PGA TOUR has been dedicated to advanced studies in theory and performance related to golf, resulting in a newly-expanded list of performance metrics that are not only tracked and reported, but continually studied and offered to fans of the game for consideration and debate. I was reading your blog and noted a recent post from Michael Jacobs that shared some intriguing data resulting from initial FlightScope with an unnamed LPGA major champ… and while I’m tempted to ask for the inside scoop on the player, I’ll respect the secret and instead ask about the evaluation. What kind of statistical work is being innovated by FlightScope, and what can you tell us about the lessons learned as a result?

FS: FlightScope is currently working with various golf teachers who are considered to be leaders in the field to accelerate certain teaching techniques with performance outcomes, which will be validated by FlightScope.

ST: It also appears – based on recent Twitter posts – FlightScope may be working with golf club and ball designers to influence the next generation of equipment. Can you tell us about FlightScope’s work in this area?

FS: FlightScope is used collectively by more club and ball manufactures/representatives than all other technologies combined. Manufacturers are focusing more and more on statistics to guide them in future designs. Our FlightScope Xi consumer model is seen as a game changer in this regard because it’s cost effective and extremely accurate and will provide the statistics required for this purpose.

ST: Let’s get down to brass tacks and excite a few golfers for the holiday season. If we find a gracious gift giver looking for the perfect present for a golfer, what would you tell them about FlightScope? How can FlightScope help the everyday duffer?

FS: Using FlightScope Xi with the FlightScope Skills app makes it possible to groove accuracy and repeatability, regardless of the golfer’s skill level. This guarantees a better golfing experience for everyone.

ST: The new Xi model is labeled “Coming Soon” on the website… care to share any juicy secrets with us, something to whet the appetite?

FS: The Xi will be officially launched at the PGA Merchandise show in January 2014 in Orlando. I can say there will be more than one version of the Xi available so depending on your need for data or your budget constraints, we have you covered.

A tremendous not of thanks to Henri for the time and insight (as special thanks to Sophia Crowley for the connection). You can check out FlightScope via Facebook, Twitter and their site. If you yearn to raise your game, we believe FlightScope will be a gift that satisfies.